Dow-Key Models
Note: There are no known designations for Dow-Keys other than the Universal Model. The following names have been arbitrarily assigned because of their similarity to Vibroplex models. Click the thumbnail photos for larger views.
Universal (Rotary)
| Universal Deluxe |  |
The Universal Deluxe has a chrome base and red paddles. Many of the Universals are found in their original wooden shipping boxes. (KN6W collection). |
| Universal, Pivoting damper |  |
This is the first version of the Universal. Note that the damper pivots with the rest of the mechanism. (W4OI collection) |
| Universal Standard |  |
Platinum gray or gold wrinkle base, chrome parts. |
| Universal Gold |  |
Gold. Single post and rod with red knob damper. |
"Bent" Dow
| Black base |  |
The so-called "Bent Dow" was designed by Paul Dow to meet a perceived need for a more ergonomic angle for keying. It is almost certain that the bent model preceded the Universal. Photo courtesy of Neal McEwen |
| Chrome base |  |
Photo courtesy of Russ Kleinman. Photo of label. |
| Brass |
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Photo courtesy of Martin Odenbach. |
Junior Model
| Junior Chrome | 
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Chrome ferrous base. 2 7/8" X 6". Upper parts non-ferrous. Flat topped binding nuts. Swinging arm type damper. Label states "DOW-KEY, MFD. By Paul P. Dow, Winnipeg". Label pinned in upper left and lower right corners. Five sided paddle. (N7CFO collection) |
Original Model (Winnipeg address) There were several variations of this key. Most seem to have had the "goal post" damper, but other variations had a vertical post with a disc in the top or a vertical post with a horizontal screw with a plastic knob on the end..
| Original Black |  |
Black. Goal post damper. Bullet shaped paddle. Slotted "wadcutter" binding posts. (N7CFO collection) Painted label. |
| Original Chrome |  |
Chrome. Goal post damper. Note goal post style damper and "Wadcutter" binding posts. |
| Original Blue |  |
Blue base, Single post and disc damper. (W4OI collection) |
| Original, Green |  |
Green base. Single post and disc damper. Winnipeg address. (K8MFO collection) Close-up of damper. Close up of label. |
| Original variation |  |
This is a variation - it has the "Hole in the Wall" frame. (WA5Y Collection) |
KEY-municator straight key
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This was a hollow based key with a black crackle finish.
The oscillator was contained in the base. It was advertised from
December 1960 through May of 1962.
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Dow boxes (Thanks to Wayne Blenkhorn, VE1BAB!)
